US Stock Exchange Public Holidays 2017: A Comprehensive Guide

In the financial world, the stock exchange is a pivotal hub where investors, traders, and corporations come together to conduct their business. However, like any other institution, the stock exchanges in the United States have their own set of public holidays when they remain closed. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the public holidays observed by the US stock exchanges in 2017.

Understanding Public Holidays in the US Stock Exchanges

The primary stock exchanges in the United States, including the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and the NASDAQ, have specific public holidays that are observed annually. These holidays are determined by federal law and are meant to celebrate significant events in American history, as well as to honor the country's cultural and religious heritage.

Public Holidays Observed in 2017

In 2017, the following public holidays were observed by the US stock exchanges:

• New Year's Day (January 2, 2017): Celebrating the beginning of the new year.
• Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January 16, 2017): Honoring the civil rights leader.
• Presidents' Day (February 20, 2017): Celebrating the birthdays of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.
• Good Friday (April 14, 2017): Observing the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
• Memorial Day (May 29, 2017): Honoring those who died while serving in the military.
• Independence Day (July 4, 2017): Celebrating the nation's independence from British rule.
• Labor Day (September 4, 2017): Recognizing the contributions of workers.
• Columbus Day (October 9, 2017): Celebrating the discovery of the New World by Christopher Columbus.
• Veterans Day (November 10, 2017): Honoring military veterans.
• Thanksgiving Day (November 23, 2017): Celebrating the harvest and giving thanks.
• Christmas Day (December 25, 2017): Celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.

Impact on Trading

The observation of these public holidays can have a significant impact on trading activities. During these days, the stock exchanges are closed, which means that investors and traders cannot buy or sell stocks. This can lead to gaps in the market when trading resumes after the holiday.

Case Study: The Impact of Public Holidays on Stock Prices

One notable example of the impact of public holidays on stock prices is the gap-up or gap-down that often occurs when the market reopens after a holiday. For instance, after the 2017 Independence Day holiday, the S&P 500 index opened higher by more than 1%, reflecting the optimism of investors returning from the holiday.

Conclusion

Understanding the public holidays observed by the US stock exchanges is crucial for investors and traders. By knowing when these holidays occur, individuals can plan their trading activities accordingly and avoid any unexpected disruptions. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, being aware of these public holidays can help you make informed decisions and navigate the stock market more effectively.

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